Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • The Council of Ministers met

    The Council of Ministers met

    In a significant address to Cuba’s Council of Ministers, President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez has issued a compelling call for immediate implementation of transformative economic and social reforms. The Cuban leader emphasized that these changes represent the most urgent modifications needed for the country’s economic model, focusing particularly on enhancing municipal autonomy and business independence.

    The comprehensive reform agenda encompasses multiple critical areas: business autonomy, municipal self-governance, restructuring of state apparatus, national food production with municipal balance sheets, energy matrix transformation including renewable sources and domestic crude oil utilization, export expansion through foreign direct investment flexibilities, economic partnerships between state and private sectors (especially at municipal level), and business engagement with Cubans residing abroad.

    President Díaz-Canel stressed that these measures must collectively contribute to macroeconomic stabilization, increased foreign exchange earnings, and development of national production—with particular emphasis on food security. He noted that success largely depends on the performance of both the business system and municipal governments, urging them to fully utilize granted powers that many have yet to implement or even understand.

    The municipal level emerges as the central focus of these reforms, with local governments expected to manage foreign direct investment, operate closed-loop foreign currency systems, facilitate state-private sector partnerships, design local production systems, and handle investments from overseas Cubans.

    During the same session, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz presented the updated “Government’s Economic and Social Program for 2026″—previously known as the Government Program to Correct Distortions and Revitalize the Economy. The revised program maintains ten general objectives while modifying specific targets and increasing measurable indicators. The document, which underwent public consultation and expert review, is scheduled for publication this March and will be updated annually.

    Economic Minister Joaquín Alonso Vázquez reported concerning economic indicators from January, with goods exports generally underperforming targets despite strong showings in honey, tobacco, lobster, rum, and biopharmaceuticals. Service exports in healthcare nearly reached 100% of targets, tourism achieved 85%, and telecommunications exceeded expectations. The minister acknowledged progress in 86 foreign currency self-financing schemes across various sectors while noting persistent challenges from the U.S. embargo.

    Agricultural production continues to struggle despite intensive efforts, failing to meet population demands or compensate for planned food import deficits. January prices rose 0.67%, resulting in a 12.5% year-on-year inflation rate driven by excess liquidity and supply deficits.

    The government reported that 178,666 families (303,298 beneficiaries) currently receive social assistance, including 63,788 mothers with three or more children in vulnerable situations. Social transformation initiatives are underway in 1,249 communities.

    Significant progress was reported on municipal decentralization, with authority to approve non-state economic actors potentially transferring to municipalities in the first half of the year. Regulations for municipal-level approval of state-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises are also advancing.

    Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy noted slow progress in municipal energy transition strategies, urging localities to develop sustainability plans using their own resources. Only nine municipalities have completed energy transition designs so far.

    Finance Minister Vladimir Regueiro Ale reported successful implementation of the 2025 State Budget, with strong subsidy performance, tax collection, and positive current account balance. Local budgets showed surpluses overall, with five provinces achieving particularly strong results. Municipalities will receive portions of 2025 revenue surpluses for development projects, potentially providing over 9 billion pesos for local development in 2026 when combined with Territorial Contribution funds.

    The Council also addressed accounts receivable and payable issues, evaluated territorial development strategies, reviewed employment survey results showing 77.9% of workers have intermediate technical or higher education, and discussed progress at the Mariel Special Development Zone despite challenging circumstances.

  • Cuban President expresses condolences to Iran after the death of Ayatollah Khamenei

    Cuban President expresses condolences to Iran after the death of Ayatollah Khamenei

    Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez has issued a forceful condemnation following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, characterizing the act as a grave violation of international norms and human dignity. Through an official statement posted on his Facebook profile, the Cuban leader expressed profound condolences to the Iranian people, government, and President Dr. Massoud Pezeshkian, as well as to the family of the deceased leader.

    President Díaz-Canel denounced the assassination as an ‘execrable act’ that represents ‘an unscrupulous violation of all norms of International Law and human dignity.’ The Cuban head of state emphasized the significant diplomatic legacy left by Ayatollah Khamenei, noting his crucial role in fostering bilateral relations between Havana and Tehran.

    In his tribute, the Cuban president memorialized the Iranian leader as ‘an outstanding statesman and leader of his people’ who made substantial contributions to the development of friendly relations between Cuba and Iran. This statement comes at a sensitive moment in international diplomacy, highlighting the strategic partnership between the two nations that have historically maintained close ties despite geopolitical pressures.

    The assassination represents a significant escalation in political violence targeting high-level international figures and is likely to have substantial implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics and international security protocols. Cuba’s strong stance underscores its consistent foreign policy position against external interference in sovereign nations’ affairs and its commitment to multilateral international law frameworks.

  • Secret talks: Rubio team meets with Castro grandson on sidelines of Caribbean conference

    Secret talks: Rubio team meets with Castro grandson on sidelines of Caribbean conference

    In a significant diplomatic development, senior U.S. officials affiliated with Secretary of State Marco Rubio conducted discreet meetings with Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, grandson of former Cuban leader Raúl Castro, during the CARICOM summit in St. Kitts. The unprecedented encounter signals Washington’s proactive exploration of potential economic and political reforms in Cuba.

    According to sources familiar with the discussions, Rodríguez Castro—who serves as both close aide and personal bodyguard to Raúl Castro and maintains considerable influence within military-controlled conglomerate GAESA—engaged with a top Rubio adviser at a hotel adjacent to the conference venue. While it remains uncertain whether Secretary Rubio participated directly in the meeting, the dialogue represents the highest-level contact between U.S. officials and Castro family members in recent years.

    The negotiations reportedly centered on a phased approach to sanctions relief, wherein the United States would gradually ease economic restrictions in exchange for incremental, verifiable reforms implemented by Havana on a monthly basis. A Caribbean diplomat involved in summit proceedings revealed that Rubio characterized the discussions as “well advanced,” though multiple sources emphasized that no formal agreement has been finalized.

    Secretary Rubio, while declining to confirm specific conversation details, publicly stated that the U.S. remains prepared to engage constructively should Cuban officials demonstrate genuine openness to “dramatic reforms,” particularly those expanding private sector opportunities. The Secretary clarified that Washington’s objective isn’t immediate regime change but rather structural transformation, cautioning that without substantial reform, Cuba’s ongoing humanitarian and economic crises would inevitably intensify.

    CARICOM leadership, historically supportive of Cuba, received indications that behind-the-scenes dialogue is actively progressing. Several regional representatives were reportedly advised against publicly addressing the matter during summit proceedings to preserve the delicate negotiation environment.

  • PM Urges CARICOM to Embrace Artificial Intelligence

    PM Urges CARICOM to Embrace Artificial Intelligence

    In a compelling address following the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda issued a strategic call to action for the Caribbean Community. He characterized artificial intelligence as an inevitable transformative force that demands immediate regional engagement. Browne emphasized that the breakneck pace of AI development presents both a critical challenge and a monumental opportunity for CARICOM nations. He warned that failure to strategically position the region could result in irreversible economic and technological marginalization. The Prime Minister advocated for proactive integration of AI systems across multiple sectors including public governance, educational frameworks, and commercial enterprises to enhance operational efficiency and global competitiveness. Drawing from personal experience, Browne illustrated how AI tools have significantly augmented productivity and output quality in creative endeavors. His statements emerge amidst intensifying global discourse concerning AI’s economic disruptions, regulatory complexities, and ethical dilemmas. Browne’s central thesis maintains that through early adoption and deliberate strategic planning, CARICOM members can harness AI’s potential benefits rather than perpetually operating from a position of technological deficit.

  • PM Says Government Moving to ‘Renaissance’ Phase in Next Term

    PM Says Government Moving to ‘Renaissance’ Phase in Next Term

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has articulated an ambitious vision for Antigua and Barbuda’s future, declaring that his administration intends to embark on a transformative “renaissance” phase of national development should it secure another electoral mandate. During a comprehensive interview with ABS, the Prime Minister reflected on the nation’s developmental trajectory, noting that the country has successfully advanced beyond what he previously characterized as the “next level” phase and now stands at the threshold of an unprecedented growth era.

    Browne expressed strong confidence in the probability of his government’s re-election, framing the forthcoming term as a pivotal juncture. “Our next term in office, should we get one, and it looks very probable, we’re now moving from next level to renaissance,” he stated, signaling a strategic shift in national priorities.

    The administration’s focus, according to Browne, will center on completing residual infrastructural gaps while aggressively pursuing high-end developmental projects. He emphasized that the government has already established substantial socioeconomic foundations, creating optimal conditions for accelerated growth. The Prime Minister projected dramatic visible transformations within a relatively short timeframe, predicting that luxury real estate developments, gourmet restaurants, and supporting infrastructure would “literally mushroom” across the nation within three to five years.

    This developmental vision is intrinsically linked to maintaining economic stability and continuing infrastructure enhancements. Browne stressed the critical importance of sustaining current momentum to ensure continued progress, suggesting that policy continuity is essential for realizing the renaissance vision. While not formally initiating a campaign, the Prime Minister utilized the platform to outline his strategic blueprint for Antigua and Barbuda’s next chapter of national transformation.

  • Election : Registration of political parties, groups, and coalitions

    Election : Registration of political parties, groups, and coalitions

    Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has formally initiated the registration process for political entities seeking participation in the nation’s upcoming electoral cycle. In an official announcement released on March 2, 2026, the electoral authority declared an 11-day registration window, running from March 2nd through March 12th, 2026, marking a critical procedural milestone in Haiti’s democratic process.

    The registration mandate, operating under the legal framework established by Article 143 of the Electoral Decree enacted on December 1, 2025, requires all political parties, groups, and coalitions to formally present themselves at the CEP’s central headquarters located at 72 Rue Stephen Archer in Pétion-ville. The designated submission hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. throughout the registration period.

    The CEP has established comprehensive documentation requirements that vary according to the type of political organization. Political parties must provide notarized articles of incorporation, official recognition acts, party statutes, minutes from their most recent general assembly or congress, and correspondence from the Ministry of Justice confirming registration. Additionally, parties must submit their official acronyms, color emblems, valid national identification cards for official representatives, and digital copies of their logos on virus-free storage media.

    For political groups or alliances, the requirements extend to include notarized agreements between constituent parties, documentation of consensus on unified emblems, and certification of each member party’s registration status with the Ministry of Justice. The CEP emphasizes that all authorization documents for representatives must be notarized when the official representative cannot appear in person.

    The electoral body has made the complete checklist of required documents available through multiple channels, including its official website (www.cephaiti.ht) and social media platforms on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), ensuring maximum accessibility for all potential participants. This transparent approach aims to facilitate compliance and streamline the registration process for Haiti’s diverse political landscape.

  • Regionale landen sturen humanitaire hulp naar Cuba en hervormen relatie met VS

    Regionale landen sturen humanitaire hulp naar Cuba en hervormen relatie met VS

    Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders concluded their four-day summit with landmark decisions including immediate humanitarian assistance for Cuba and the establishment of a trilateral commission to redefine relations with the United States. The conference, held in Saint Kitts and Nevis and chaired by Prime Minister Terrance Drew, addressed multiple regional challenges through concrete action plans.

    Prime Minister Drew confirmed during the post-summit press briefing that Cuba’s escalating humanitarian situation received extensive deliberation. All member states recognized the urgency of addressing the crisis, with CARICOM pledging to leverage its unique position having close ties to both Cuba and the United States. The specific form of assistance will be determined within the next month, ensuring it directly benefits the Cuban people while maintaining regional stability.

    The summit marked a significant advancement in US-Caribbean relations through the creation of a three-member commission that will explore new cooperation frameworks. This initiative emerged from discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who attended the CARICOM meetings. Prime Minister Drew characterized this development as profoundly significant for strengthening the longstanding partnership between the regional bloc and the United States.

    Beyond immediate crises, leaders made substantial progress on regional integration through the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The summit approved recommendations enabling free movement of aviation professionals including pilots and air traffic controllers across member states. Four nations—Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines—have successfully implemented full freedom of movement for goods, services, and labor since October 2025.

    The conference also addressed Haiti’s security and humanitarian situation, endorsing the Eminent Persons Group report that praised Kenya’s leadership of the UN-mandated Gang Suppression Force (formerly the Multinational Security Support mission). CARICOM reaffirmed its commitment to peace and stability in Haiti through continued support.

    Reparations discussions advanced with the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee tasked to review the revised Caricom Ten-Point Plan for Reparations and establish priorities for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in November 2026.

    Regional security and justice cooperation saw progress with model legislation and policy documents, complemented by renewed UN offers to support implementation of a Police Record Management Information System.

    A dedicated committee comprising the prime ministers of Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, and the president of Guyana will undertake comprehensive review of CARICOM’s governance and funding mechanisms.

    Regarding ongoing border disputes—specifically Guatemala-Belize, Belize-Honduras, and Guyana-Venezuela cases before the International Court of Justice—leaders unanimously endorsed peaceful, legal resolutions and reaffirmed unconditional support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of affected states.

  • President terug van Caricom-top: bilaterale relaties versterkt

    President terug van Caricom-top: bilaterale relaties versterkt

    Surinamese President Jennifer Simons has returned from the 50th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis (February 24-27), expressing satisfaction with the substantial diplomatic achievements secured for her nation. The summit, themed ‘Beyond Words: Action Today for a Thriving, Sustainable CARICOM,’ yielded enhanced multilateral cooperation and new economic opportunities for Suriname, according to the Suriname Communication Service.

    President Simons conducted numerous high-level bilateral meetings with international representatives, accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation Melvin Bouva. These diplomatic engagements included substantive discussions with delegations from Saudi Arabia, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the United Arab Emirates, the U.S. Secretary of State, and the Afreximbank. Additional bilateral talks were held with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

    The summit proved particularly significant for Suriname as the country prepares to assume CARICOM’s rotating presidency in 2027. President Simons had emphasized the meeting’s crucial importance for regional cooperation before her departure on February 22nd.

    Key strategic benefits secured for Suriname include:
    • Strengthened multilateral cooperation and international partnerships
    • Expanded collaboration opportunities with the United States and other third countries
    • New prospects in energy, digitalization, and economic development
    • Enhanced regional cooperation on security and law enforcement
    • Participation in a reinforced reparations agenda

    In her opening address, President Simons highlighted Caribbean unity and collective action as the region’s fundamental strength, warning that fragmentation impedes regional development. She called for accelerated integration processes with particular focus on economic diversification, sustainable energy development, and creating opportunities for youth.

    The president also emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships with international actors while ensuring regional interests remain paramount. Suriname identifies significant opportunities within CARICOM to contribute to broader regional prosperity through cooperation in energy, natural resources, and trade.

  • Afonsoewa: Waarheid over mijn rechtszaak en de misleiding door ex-minister Ramadhin

    Afonsoewa: Waarheid over mijn rechtszaak en de misleiding door ex-minister Ramadhin

    In a striking political confrontation, National Assembly Member Silvana Afonsoewa has publicly challenged former Minister Amar Ramadhin over what she describes as deliberate misrepresentation of facts regarding their ongoing legal battle. Afonsoewa asserts that Ramadhin consistently distorts reality when his ministerial decisions face critical scrutiny.

    The dispute centers around Afonsoewa’s legal case against the Ministry of Health, where both current and former directors attended all court proceedings. The civil service court explicitly ruled that Afonsoewa must be provided with a workplace and compensated for work performed, with parties instructed to establish a timeline for practical implementation – a process that was subsequently expedited.

    Afonsoewa reveals that Ramadhin’s attempted dismissal of her was deemed legally invalid, and even the President had provided written negative advice regarding Ramadhin’s intention. She ultimately resumed her duties with confirmed legal status, working until June 2025.

    The assembly member clarifies that the judgment selectively referenced by Ramadhin pertains only to a preliminary injunction, while her main civil service case remains ongoing without final decision from the High Court. She characterizes Ramadhin’s portrayal as misleading and intended to create false closure.

    Afonsoewa raises pointed questions about selective enforcement, asking why a deputy director who failed to report for work but represented the ministry abroad was maintained, and why parliamentarians from Ramadhin’s party continue receiving civil service salaries without performing duties year after year.

    Emphasizing her integrity, Afonsoewa notes her five-year Assembly service without additional government positions. She announces her attorney will formally request the ministry director who attended all hearings to officially confirm the facts, specifically noting that the referenced judgment is not the one requiring implementation.

  • Ten years of the JLP: Progress, pitfalls, and the road ahead

    Ten years of the JLP: Progress, pitfalls, and the road ahead

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness has etched his name in Jamaica’s political history by becoming the first Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader to secure three consecutive electoral victories. His party’s decade-long governance, beginning with a 2016 win that secured 33 parliamentary seats, culminated in a hard-fought 2020 triumph during the COVID-19 pandemic (49-14) and a narrower 34-29 victory in 2025.

    The JLP’s tenure has produced substantial economic transformations, most notably in macroeconomic stabilization. Jamaica’s once-crippling debt-to-GDP ratio has dramatically declined through rigorous fiscal discipline, consistent primary budget surpluses, and strict adherence to International Monetary Fund programs. These measures have elevated investor confidence and enhanced the nation’s international credit standing—a significant achievement masterminded by former Finance Minister Dr. Nigel Clarke, despite recent setbacks from Hurricane Melissa.

    Infrastructure development has been another visible success, with major road initiatives like the SPARK program, expanded highway networks, and substantial investments in water and housing infrastructure through the National Housing Trust. Social protection programs have also expanded, with increased allocations for PATH beneficiaries, elderly citizens, and small farmers. The government’s COVID-19 response, including the CARE program’s cash transfers, provided crucial relief during the global crisis.

    Employment metrics show remarkable improvement, with unemployment dropping to a record low of 3.3% in October 2025 from pre-pandemic lows below 7%. The business process outsourcing sector has been a particular engine of job creation, though concerns persist about working conditions.

    However, the administration faces significant challenges. While murder rates have reached 30-year lows, police killings remain excessively high, and the absence of body cameras during operations continues to draw criticism from civil society groups. Cost of living pressures—including inflation, rising food prices, and utility bills—have eroded purchasing power despite economic growth. New taxes implemented after Hurricane Melissa have further strained households.

    Public sector reform remains incomplete, with bureaucratic inefficiencies and uneven policy implementation frustrating citizens. Education systems continue to grapple with COVID-19 learning loss, teacher shortages, and infrastructure disparities between urban and rural schools. Questions regarding transparency in procurement processes and communication gaps have periodically marred public discourse.

    The JLP’s legacy thus presents a complex picture: commendable economic management alongside persistent social challenges. As Jamaica moves forward, the true measure of leadership will be whether economic progress translates into tangible improvements in the daily lives of ordinary citizens, requiring greater focus on human security, social equity, and institutional trust.